The Times reports that Johnson has agreed in principle to the management role. Terms will be finalised next week with the Rugby Football Union (RFU), and his appointment should be confirmed thereafter.

Johnson will only take over after England’s tour of New Zealand in June – his wife is expecting their second child at that time - and this signals the end is near for Brian Ashton as Johnson will gain control of selection as well as the hiring and firing of individuals. Ashton could be asked to lead to the team to New Zealand, but whether he will be available with the pending news is debateable.

Others linked to the Johnson regime in coaching capacities include Australian Pat Howard, Graham Rowntree, and John Wells – all of whom have links with Johnson’s former club, Leicester.